Buzz
Photo: Getty ImagesThe Old Fashioned and Manhattan have remained beloved cocktails for generations, thanks to their irresistible flavors. While they share notable similarities, the distinctions between them might sway your preference in the Old Fashioned vs. Manhattan discussion.
Learn how to distinguish a Manhattan from an Old Fashioned, ensuring you can confidently order or craft the right one for any occasion.
Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned is a timeless drink, originating in the 1800s. It combines bourbon, a sugar cube, water, and bitters, garnished with a twist of orange peel for a classic touch.
Crafting an Old Fashioned involves muddling a sugar cube with water and bitters, followed by adding ice and your choice of rye whiskey or bourbon.
Similar to other iconic drinks, modern variations of the Old Fashioned exist. (We particularly enjoy a bold coffee-infused version, blending rum and Turkish coffee with the traditional ingredients.)
Manhattan
The Manhattan, much like the Old Fashioned, is a cocktail that harks back to the 19th century. Some historians attribute its creation to New York's Manhattan Club, while others believe it originated at The Hoffman House, another New York City establishment. (Regardless of its exact birthplace, the cocktail's name and refined taste perfectly align with its heritage.)
To prepare a traditional Manhattan, mix rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, then garnish with a maraschino cherry. Opting for a premium cherry, such as a Luxardo, can elevate the drink's flavor profile. (It's worth the indulgence!)
A cocktail shaker is essential for making a Manhattan. Combine all ingredients except the cherry in the shaker filled with ice, shake vigorously, and strain into a coupe glass. Add a cherry as the final touch for a flawless presentation.
For a unique twist on the Manhattan, substitute rye whiskey with bourbon to create a sweeter variation. Experiment with other ingredients, such as dry vermouth or alternative bitters, to customize the flavor. If cherries are your favorite, enhance the drink with a splash of tart cherry juice, as seen in this Cherry Manhattan recipe.
How to Choose a Manhattan vs. an Old Fashioned
Although their flavor profiles are quite similar, subtle distinctions between the two might influence your preference for one over the other.
For those who prefer a sweeter beverage, the Old Fashioned is likely the better choice, as its pure sugar content lends a slightly sweeter taste. (However, don't mistake it for a sugary cocktail—it still retains a bold and bitter edge.)
The inclusion of vermouth in a Manhattan introduces wine-like notes. (Vermouth, a fortified wine, also carries a subtle herbal undertone.)
If the presentation plays a role in your cocktail selection, note that the Old Fashioned is typically served in a rocks glass with ice, while the Manhattan is elegantly presented in a chilled coupe glass, sans ice.
Both cocktails—and most simply classic cocktails—share a common requirement: the use of premium ingredients. With only a few components in the mix, selecting the finest elements ensures your drink truly stands out.
